'Manchester beware': How Liverpool hosting Eurovision 2023 is a huge boost for Manchester

The news last month that Manchester was out of the running to host the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 came as a huge blow to Mancunians and those involved with the city's bid. To quote city council leader Bev Craig, it was set to be "the most iconic party the UK has ever seen" if those in charge had decided to bring the contest to Manchester.

However the party is back on after Liverpool, just a short trip along the M62, was yesterday evening (Friday October 7) chosen as the host city for the world's biggest live music event. When Graham Norton, who hosts the BBC Eurovision coverage, announced on The One Show that Liverpool will welcome the event next May, there were smiles 35 miles away as Manchester was also celebrating, with parties being planned and the city's bars, restaurants and hotels in a perfect position to 'Boom Bang-a-Bang' for returning and new tourists.

Sacha Lord, the night time economy advisor for Greater Manchester and co-founder of Manchester's Parklife festival, is one of those who sees the positives out of nearby Liverpool being selected.

READ MORE: Eurovision Song Contest 2023 will be held in Liverpool after Manchester knocked out

"Liverpool deserved to win. The whole campaign was head and shoulders above anyone else. Huge congratulations to our neighbours," he said.

"With the close proximity, their win will undoubtedly help Greater Manchester's economy too, not just as an overspill for hotel rooms, but Liverpool will reach out to suppliers and freelancers from all over the North West. Ultimately, the biggest win though, is we are now seeing other major cities as an option to the obvious London default."

He added: "I’ve never understood why major events look to London first. As an event organiser,